The Runaways: A New and Original Story

by Nat Gould

"The Runaways: A New and Original Story" by Nat Gould is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around themes of mystery, family conflict, and relationships, primarily focusing on Redmond Maynard and his estranged son, Ulick Maynard. The narrative sets the stage for a drama filled with emotional tensions and the potential for reconciliation, all intertwined with the backdrop of horse racing and rural life. The opening of the novel introduces us to Redmond Maynard, who reflects on the loss of his son, Ulick, who left home two years prior after a heated argument. This moment is marked by a heavy atmosphere as Redmond contemplates his son's absence while watching the snow fall outside. The narrative introduces other key characters, such as Irene, a family friend who visits to comfort Redmond, and hints at a deeper conflict involving Ulick's supposed wrongdoing with Janet Todd, leading to her mysterious disappearance. This richly detailed introduction immerses the reader into the emotional depth of familial relationships and the intrigue surrounding the disappeared characters, setting the stage for further developments in the story.